Water War in South Asia; Pakistan Labels India’s Threat as “Irrational”

DIDPress: Following recent remarks by the Indian Prime Minister regarding the possible suspension of Pakistan’s access to shared water resources, Pakistan’s military spokesperson, Ahmad Sharif Chaudhry, labeled the threat as “irrational.” Cutting off water to Pakistan’s 240 million population is not feasible, emphasized Chaudhry in an interview with Al Jazeera.

Chaudhry pointed out that the six major rivers in question originate from the Kashmir region, which remains a disputed territory under UN resolutions. “If the people of Kashmir vote to join Pakistan, these rivers will rightfully belong to us, and Pakistan will be the decision-maker,” he added.

India’s statements came in the wake of an attack in the Pahalgam, Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists. Accusing Pakistan of involvement in the incident, India suspended the 65-year-old Indus Waters Treaty—a pact that provides water for nearly 80% of Pakistan’s agricultural land.

New Delhi said the suspension will remain in effect until Pakistan “irreversibly” ends its support for terrorist groups.

The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, was intended to manage water resources between the two nations. However, political tensions have frequently hindered its effective implementation.